Matthew 22:41-46

41 Now as the Pharisees were gathering, Jesus asked them,42 “What do you think about the Christ? Whose son is he?” “David’s son,” they replied.43 He said, “Then how is it that David, inspired by the Holy Spirit, called him Lord when he said,44 The Lord said to my lord, ‘Sit at my right side until I turn your enemies into your footstool’?45 If David calls him Lord, how can he be David’s son?”46 Nobody was able to answer him. And from that day forward nobody dared to ask him anything.

It’s not a good idea to argue with Jesus. Throughout the Gospels, many people question and challenge Jesus. Leaders of his day felt threatened by what they perceived as unorthodox teachings and his apparent disregard for the law when strictly interpreted. At the same time, they can’t understand or explain...

Holy God, guide us by your Spirit that we may never find ourselves in a position opposite your beloved Son. Amen.

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Deuteronomy 34 narrates Moses’ death and Joshua’s succession, both the end of Moses’ life and the continuation of his influence. Psalm 90 is ascribed to Moses, and the tone suits the setting portrayed in Deuteronomy 34. In First Thessalonians Paul continues his recollection of the relationship between himself and the Thessalonians. Paul and his coworkers acted out their love of neighbor, a love that is possible only because of their prior love of God. The Gospel places Jesus in a setting of controversy with the religious leaders of the day. The exchange about the greatest commandment demonstrates that the religious authorities in fact observe none of the commandments because of their inability to understand properly what Jesus calls the “ rst” and “second” commandments.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read Deuteronomy 34:1-12. How is God speaking to you about your life? What endings seem imminent? What new beginning is God forming you for?
• Read Psalm 90:1-6, 13-17. Notice all the references to time. How do you experience time when you perceive God’s work in your life? How do you measure time when God seems absent?
• Read 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8. What relationship is God using to form you spiritually? Who are you tenderly sharing the gospel and yourself with so that God is using you in someone else’s life?
• Read Matthew 22:34-46. The writer states, “It is impossible to love God without also loving those created in God’s image.” What are the implications of this statement on your life? the life of your church?

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